The government’s recent £740 million announcement to support mainstream schools in adapting their environments for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is an important development in creating more inclusive learning spaces across England. While the National Audit Office (NAO) has emphasised the need for reform, and Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has highlighted the importance of long-term, meaningful change, many schools are now seeking ways to enhance their facilities for SEND pupils in practical and impactful ways.

At Mike Ayres Design, our focus is on designing accessible sensory rooms, multi-sensory environments, and projection rooms that meet the diverse needs of pupils. We create soothing, engaging spaces that combine padded furniture, walls, and equipment designed for inclusivity, ensuring every student can benefit—regardless of their abilities.

What We Provide

• Specialised Sensory Rooms
  We tailor these rooms to the individual needs of pupils, using our in-house manufacturing expertise to provide padded surfaces, custom lighting, and interactive elements that support physical comfort and emotional well-being.

• Multi-Sensory Environments
  Our multi-sensory solutions incorporate sound, light, and tactile features, helping schools create immersive experiences that encourage exploration and development in a safe setting.

• Projection Rooms
  Designed to stimulate creativity and learning, our projection spaces use visuals and interactive technologies to engage pupils across a range of abilities.

Developed with Occupational Therapists

Our products and environments are developed in consultation with professional occupational therapists, ensuring they are not only safe but also meet the therapeutic needs of pupils. This collaboration helps schools support students’ academic, social, and emotional growth.

Supporting Schools, Trusts, and Local Authorities

As the number of SEND pupils in mainstream education continues to increase, schools are seeking trusted partners to help them utilise available funding effectively. Our commitment is to work closely with teachers, School Trusts, and Local Authorities to create environments that align with both regulatory standards and the specific aspirations of each school community.

Investing in the Future of Education

With SEND pupils recognised as a vital part of every classroom, creating spaces where they can thrive benefits the entire school community. Our approach focuses on sustainability, safety, and effectiveness—empowering schools to make the most of the current education spending while planning for the long term.

Connect with Mike Ayres Design to discover how our experience in accessible sensory environments, multi-sensory rooms can support schools in meeting the evolving needs of SEND pupils. Together, we can create supportive, engaging, and fully inclusive settings that enable every child to flourish.